Physiotherapy Clinic based in the centre of St. Albans
Acupuncture in Physiotherapy:
Acupuncture is used in physiotherapy. It is an effective treatment for relieving the pain, inflammation and muscle tension that arises with many injuries.
What is acupuncture?
Acupuncture is a treatment originating from ancient Chinese medicine in which fine needles are inserted into certain points of the body for therapeutic or preventative purposes. Acupuncture is not a cure for any condition, but it can be a helpful complementary treatment for many conditions.
Acupuncture used by your physiotherapist
Acupuncture is not always a standalone treatment and may be used alongside other physiotherapy treatments, advice and exercise for a variety of conditions, including:
- Pain: Acupuncture can be effective for reducing pain and improving function in people with chronic pain, such as back pain, neck pain and headaches.
- Inflammation: Acupuncture can help to reduce inflammation and swelling in people with conditions such as arthritis and tendinitis.
- Muscle spasms: Acupuncture can help to relax muscles and relieve muscle spasms in people with conditions such as chronic pain and trauma such as whiplash.
- Sports injuries: Acupuncture can help to speed up recovery from sports injuries and improve range of motion.
What can I expect from acupuncture?
- You’ll lie comfortably on a padded table.
- The needles used in acupuncture are very thin and are inserted into the skin at specific points. These needles are much thinner than those used for injections.
- You may feel a slight pricking sensation when the needles are inserted, but most people find acupuncture to be painless.
- Acupuncture treatments typically last for 20-30 minutes.
- You may feel relaxed or tired after an acupuncture treatment.
- It may take several acupuncture treatments to see results.
Acupuncture is generally safe for most people, but it is important to talk to your physiotherapist before getting acupuncture if you have any health conditions.
Suffering Aches and Pains?
If you are suffering from a physical health condition, sports injury or general pain and discomfort then we are here to help you.
Our goal is to treat your symptoms, reduce your pain, increase your range of motion, improve your flexibility and help you return to your optimal function. Our physiotherapists are able to treat a range of complaints, such as a bad backs, sore necks, muscle and joint pain, tennis elbow, sciatica, knee pain, hip problems, as well as many more conditions.
Acupuncture Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What conditions can acupuncture treat in physiotherapy?
Acupuncture can be helpful for various conditions, including pain (back, neck, knee, etc.), headaches, sports injuries, muscle tension, and fatigue.
Is acupuncture safe?
Yes, acupuncture is generally safe when performed by a qualified and registered physiotherapist. However, it’s important to disclose your medical history and any medications you’re taking.
Are there side effects of acupuncture?
Side effects are usually mild and short-lived, like minor bleeding or bruising at the needle insertion site, dizziness, or lightheadedness.
What does acupuncture feel like?
You may feel a tingling sensation, dull ache, or nothing at all when the needles are inserted. The needles are very thin and most people find the experience relaxing.
How many acupuncture sessions will I need?
The number of sessions will vary depending on your condition and response to treatment. It’s usually recommended to start with a few sessions and see how you progress.
Can I combine acupuncture with other physiotherapy treatments?
Yes, acupuncture is often used alongside other physiotherapy techniques like exercise, manual therapy, and electrotherapy for a more comprehensive treatment plan.
Can anyone receive acupuncture?
Not everyone is suitable for acupuncture. People with certain medical conditions or taking specific medications may need to avoid it. Discuss this with your physiotherapist.
Articles related to Accupuncture
Physiotherapy and Acute Onset Tennis and Golf Injuries
In the Summer, here at Orchard Physiotherapy Clinic we see more clients complaining of injuries related to tennis and golf. Types of Tennis and Golf Injury Some of these sport…
How to Recognise and Treat Tennis Elbow
Tennis elbow, or lateral epicondylalgia, is a common condition caused by overuse of the forearm muscles, often seen after activities like gardening. It results in pain and discomfort around the elbow, especially when gripping or twisting the hand.
Physiotherapy treatments provided by Orchard Physio:
Here are some of the more popular physiotherapy services we offer:
Manual Therapy
Hands-on treatment to improve movement and function includes soft tissue release and massage, Joint mobilisation and manipulation, Taping and strapping, Mobilisations with movement (MWMs) and Myofascial release.
Acupuncture
Fine needles are inserted into specific points of the body for therapeutic or preventative purposes. Effective treatment used for relieving the pain, inflammation and muscle tension that arises with many injuries.
Core Muscle Ultrasound Scanning
A diagnostic imaging technique using ultrasound to visualize the core muscles of the abdomen and pelvis. It can be used to help your core training, post pregnancy diastasis recti rehabilitation and ease back pain.
Vestibular Rehab Therapy
An effective exercise-based programme designed to reduce vertigo, dizziness, visual disturbance, and/or imbalance and falls.
Electrotherapy
Electrotherapy treatment provided by therapeutic ultrasound used to reduce inflammation, increase blood flow, breakdown scar tissue and promote healing in conditions such as Achilles tendinopathy, tennis elbow and muscle tears.
Exercise Prescription
Home exercise programmes are extremely effective in assisting patients to recover. A tailored exercise programme will be structured for you by the Physiotherapist, based on their findings from your clinical assessment.
Postural Education and Ergonomics Advice
Due to the postures we adopt at work or in our leisure time activities, e.g. driving or sitting looking at monitors / screens, many of us suffer with aches and pains. We will identify the imbalance causing the pain and will address this through a variety of treatments.
Sports Massage
Sports massage is effectively used to treat all levels of athletes and all types of sports injuries. We have experience of working with elite athletes and dancers. Anybody suffering from muscle soreness or tension or joint pain will find this treatment beneficial. We will diagnose your problem taking into account factors such as footwear, equipment and skill-specific technique.
Clinical Pilates
Clinical Pilates developed by Physiotherapists with the emphasis on controlled movements, strengthening the core muscles of the trunk to support your spine.
Orchard Physio Clinic hold a variety of Clinical Pilates classes throughout the week. 1:1 Clinical Pilates is also available by appointment.
Suffering Aches and Pains?
If you are suffering from a physical health condition, sports injury or general pain and discomfort then we are here to help you.
Our goal is to treat your symptoms, reduce your pain, increase your range of motion, improve your flexibility and help you return to your optimal function. Our physiotherapists are able to treat a range of complaints, such as a bad backs, sore necks, muscle and joint pain, tennis elbow, sciatica, knee pain, hip problems, as well as many more conditions.